Norovirus was discovered in the 1970s and is commonly known as winter vomiting disease because it is prevalent during the winter. Norovirus can be transmitted person-to-person as well as through contaminated foods and drinks.
This makes it very hard to control outbreaks. It is very contagious and found in most areas. Norovirus is among the most common sources of Gastroenteritis. High-risk environments include isolated areas such as daycares, nursing homes, schools, etc.
Sources of Norovirus infection include:
Consuming raw and uncooked foods.
Consuming contaminated food and beverage.
Coming in contact with an infected person or their bodily fluids.
Preparing food in unsanitary conditions.
With this in mind, please be sure that all surfaces in your home are clean and germ-free. Pay extra attention to the kitchen area.
The Norovirus infection symptoms are acute onset vomiting, watery diarrhea, low-grade fever, muscle aches, fatigue, nausea, headache, and stomach cramps. Symptoms appear one to two days after contracting the virus and usually lasts 12 hours to two days. Remember, prevention is the best medicine, so following sanitary procedures and avoiding raw and uncooked foods is a great place to start.